|
|
|
|
| JOBS & CAREERS |
|
|
Festive boost for hiring
management mantra
Testing times: Banking Exams
in conversation
cubicle trends
Accenture, Wipro, Infy most sought after
Don’t mix leisure & work
Non-tech job scene to be hot
Skipping lunch break may be a good idea!
bookshelf
Happiness@work
newsboard
course cruising CareerCature
scholarship roundup
CAREER
HOTLINE
|
|
Astrophysics
Would you like to work on building a satellite based telescope, a coronograph that will provide imageries of the corona of the sun? If the answers to all the above questions are in the affirmative, then it’s time you get introduced to “astrphysics”. Astrophysicists are scientists who try to understand and interpret the universe. Traditionally astronomy has been more observational in scope while astrophysics is more analytical. Thus astronomers measure the positions and characteristics of heavenly bodies while astrophysicists apply the study of physics to understand astronomy. However, nowadays, the two terms are more or less interchangeable since all astronomers use physics to understand their findings.
What it involves
Using observational tools like space and ground-based observatories, and computers they attempt to build up a picture, not only of what the universe is like today, but what it was like billions of years ago, right back to the “Big Bang”. They observe celestial bodies and phenomena, their motions, forms, dimensions, surface features, and the effects which they produce upon one another through their attractions and radiations. They must use whatever kind of light, from radio to gamma rays, and particles (from cosmic rays to neutrinos) that make it to Earth, along with sophisticated computers to piece together what happens beyond our planet. Observational astronomers might look for new planets, try to understand stars, galaxies, black holes, and other phenomena, or try to map the entire sky, while more theoretical researchers might measure magnetic fields or simulate the structural build-up of the stars, figure out how galaxies formed and how the expansion of the Universe evolved. Celestial bodies and celestial environment provide natural laboratories for studying physical phenomena in extreme conditions which are seldom realised in our terrestrial environment. Based on what they see, astrophysicists write theories on topics ranging from space and time to the origins of the universe. The discussions and interpretation of observations employs the use of mathematical analysis, often of the most advanced type. To test their theories, astrophysicists analyse and interpret research data. Modern astronomy requires the use of most modern and advanced technologies, e.g. in fabrication of modern telescopes, in building imaging and spectroscopic equipment to observe and analyse radiation received from the celestial objects. It needs fast computers, state-of-the-art software to handle data and process images. It also needs stable space platforms to observe radiation otherwise blocked by the Earth’s atmosphere. Therefore, the field of astrophysics throws open possibilities of a career for graduates of physics, mathematics, and engineering who can go on to do a specialisation or a PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Getting in
Astrophysicists need to love physics and maths and enjoy solving puzzles. There is no university in India which offers an undergraduate programme in astronomy or astrophysics as these subjects are only taught at master's or PhD levels. So it is a good idea to acquire proficiency in physics and mathematics at the graduate level and then get into this area of specialisation. An engineer with a BTech or BE degree, with an aptitude for this subject, can also enter the field as a research scholar. To get into fields related to astronomy, astrophysics or space science you can follow any of two routes. You can take up BSc Physics for graduation and then follow this up with MSc and research leading to a PhD, which will enable you to become an astronomer/ astrophysicist or a scientist/research officer, etc. in the field of space research. Alternatively, you can do BE/BTech in aeronautical or aerospace engineering followed by MTech + PhD in the relevant field. If you want to do instrumentation/ experimental astronomy, you can take the engineering option. On the other hand, if you want to do theoretical astronomy or observations, it is best to take up a bachelor’s degree in science. At the master's and PhD levels, there are several options and specialisations.
Skill set
There are many different fields of astronomy from the instrument-building teams who work with their hands to the theoretical branches where mathematical ability and physical intuition is essential. Advanced maths is a major part of the job, as astrophysicists use calculus, algebra, geometry and other high-order number skills to create complex calculations. Analytical skills, or the ability to complete scientific experiments and studies, are essential as well. Astrophysicists also need logic and reasoning skills to think critically when evaluating their work. Moreover, for all branches of astronomy good programming skills are invaluable. You must like working with computers as the huge data sets (measured in terrabytes) and complex multi-variable modeling require a lot of computer processing. Finally, communications skills such as writing and speaking are key, because a critical part of science is communicating your results in professional journals, conferences, and sometimes to the general public, Perhaps the most essential ingredient is a passion for the subject - a passion for figuring out the underlying physics of how things work, a curiosity and an interest in tackling huge questions that might take many years to find the answer to.
Scope
There are several institutes in India that offer a scope to pursue a career in astronomy and astrophysics, as there is a severe shortage of serious research astronomers in the country. In fact, in this field your study is your job, as the work in astrophysics is research based in fields that require knowledge of science and maths. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics ( IIA), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Science, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Space Physics Laboratories, Space Applications Centres, etc. are the some of the major establishments providing job opportunities to those holding higher degrees/doctorates in these disciplines. Currently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) which has put several satellites into space is working towards a maiden manned Indian space mission vehicle that can carry three astronauts for seven days in a near earth orbit. Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences is currently setting up a 3.6m optical telescope for the study of magnetic field structure of stars and chemical evolution of Milky way and other galactic features. These are exciting times in the field of astrophysics. So if you are the kind of person who enjoys exploring questions like: How was the world created?, How will the world end?, Are there other intelligent civilisations out there (beyond Earth)?, and other questions, then you too can follow your stars into the intra-terrestrial galaxy of astrophysics.
Course content
Institutes offering MSc and PhD in astrophysics or astronomy and related subjects include:
|
|
Festive boost for hiring
However, an overall weak economic scenario may take a toll on bonus payments for employees as companies seek to spend more on sales and marketing. Hiring has been subdued for the past few months and some companies have even imposed a freeze on fresh recruitments amid the economic uncertainty. However, with the onset of the festival season there is a renewed focus on employing additional staff to boost business. “There is an expectation of 10-12 per cent growth in new job creation in the remaining part of the year. Main drivers of jobs would be IT, ITes, hardware, construction and engineering. Major metros are expected to contribute to most of the new job creation,” CareerBuilder India MD Pramlesh Machama said. While India celebrates festivals through the year, the last four months are relatively busier, starting with Ganesh Chaturthi and Dasehra celebrated earlier this month, followed by Diwali on November 3 and then Christmas and New Year. Consumer spending during these months increases significantly across various products and services and businesses need additional manpower. Randstad India and Sri Lanka CEO Moorthy K Uppaluri said: “Since customer spending and demand are generally high during festival occasions, we expect hiring to increase by 5 per cent, especially in front-end sales functions.” During the festival season, retailers need extra people for sales and customer service and many consumer durable companies ramp up promotional activities. There is demand for jobs such as cashiers, coordinators and event management staff. “Various brands unleash their sales campaign and product launches and for this they require manpower to pull it off. It is likely that most flexi staff will be hired in retail outlets, malls, among others, to manage their front-end sales and customer care,” Indian Staffing Federation VP Rituparna Chakraborty said. The hotels and hospitality sector scrambles to find temps while travel companies see increased business. According to TeamLease Services Co-Founder and Senior Vice President Sangeeta Lala, “Overall, hiring will go up in this season also, though only for extremely short periods and not as a sustained requirement.” ‘With the festival season in full swing, I feel the overall hiring across all sectors would go up by at least 5-10 per cent,” Champion Computers MD Kapil Wadhwa said. The festival season is the time when many organisations dole out bonuses to employees. This year, given the slowdown, bonuses maybe reduced or deferred as companies focus on sales and marketing, experts say. “Since many firms are moving to a performance-based compensation, bonus to employees as a component seems to be done away with at many organisations,” Society for Human Resource Management India Knowledge Advisor Mamta Kanuga said. According to Simi Dean, Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition, Top Gear Consulting, companies are not doing so well in the current economic scenario, but they may still try to give a good bonus packages to retain employees. “Employees expect to be given bonuses as a ritual and companies avoid denying them even if it is going through a financial turmoil as it leads to a dip in the morale of its employees,” Bristlecone VP Global HR & Talent Management Ritu Mehrotra said.
— PTI
|
|
management mantra
A popular saying in political circles runs thus: “For forms of governments let fools contest/ whatever is best administered is the best!” So is the notion which skilled managers mostly have that if they spend well then they can get things done and get the best results. But enhancing productivity and keeping employees engaged is not a cakewalk and high-spending formula is
certainly not the right one.
CATO tool that simply involves the use of communication, appreciation, training, and opportunity is among the most effective methods to keep employees engaged, stem attrition rates and keep productivity levels high. Here’s how the different components of this tool can be used for the benefit of the organisation and its workforce.
Keep communication channels open
The managements that are free and fair always prefer getting feedback for whatever steps they take. But in many set ups this feedback is kept a secret, which is not the right strategy. If it is an open ballot and everyone is free to voice their opinion, then the workers will feel more involved and thus more connected to their organisation. When the method of getting feedback is treated as an internal tool to get evaluation then management too can take steps to improving its functioning. Open communication channels ensure cooperation from the employees and also enhances their overall productivity.
A timely pat on the
back pays
Every good worker should be praised, but at the proper time. If a particular employee is praised all the time then it loses significance for the person concerned, while it may create resentment among others who may feel that one person is being favoured excessively. Timely and unbiased appreciation boosts workers’ morale and increases work satisfaction. The real management skill lies in making a worker crave for a word of praise.
Open doors to opportunities
At almost every workplace managements send their employees for training programmes. But if there is no set policy for selecting candidates then partiality and favouritism are likely to guide the selection of workers for such assignments. Managements need to rise above such petty politics and dirty workplace culture. The employees must not be denied the right to get trained at the right time. Training programmes and other assignments are, however, not the only opportunities which employees must get in time, but other opportunities like timely pay hikes, perks, suitable leave rules, relaxations and recreational programmes etc also increase employee engagement to a great extent. Simply providing such facilities are not enough. The most important of all is to create a kind of eagerness among the workers to strive for these opportunities. Things work much better when the managements, too, are eager to provide such facilities and opportunities to their workforce. Research in organisational psychology has proved that CATO management tools when used sincerely, and accepted wholeheartedly by the employees, simply work like magic.
|
|
Brand Management Mantra
With an increasing demand and need to be visible as brands and product in the competitive market, there is also a growing need for effective brand managers who help in positively enhancing the public image of a brand. Brand Managers, productively maintain and grow the image of the brand.
Role and responsibilities
The role of a brand manager includes looking after all brand related activities that include marketing analysis, communications, imaging, branding, planning, brand positioning and, most importantly, building brand loyalty. A major part of a brand manager’s job is to try and develop an emotional connect between one’s brand and the consumers. Kartika Bali Malhotra, brand manager of the luxury brand Valaya Home elaborates, “Supervising and actively engaging new audiences and target groups through different verticals — Promotions, ATL/BTL Events, Public Relations, Social Media Strategies and advertising, all form a part of a brand manager’s job.” Brand Management is a vast field which can cater to almost any field or domain such as manufacturing, automobile, services, FMCG, tourism, entertainment, Print Media. Sidhant Khanna, Marketing Head, Asia Pacific, Vdopia Inc., opines, “Today, brand management, has evolved to include B2B verticals as well. Initially, it was highly relevant for B2C organisations, but today, we see a growing need of the role even in companies that don’t sell directly to the consumer or a mass market.”
The personality traits required for an effective brand manager are good interpersonal and communication skills, to keep an open mind to ideas and opportunities, a good relationship builder too. A ‘People’s Person’ is best suited for a brand manager’s profile. As far as the academic and professional qualifications are concerned, a master’s and bachelor’s degree in communication, mass media and public relations backed by sound and extensive professional experience helps. Preferably a master’s in Marketing or PG diploma in Brand Management is recommended. Malhotra adds “I feel considerable work experience in Events, Marketing and PR is a must.” “In terms of academics, an MBA is seen as a programme that enhances the understanding of brand management. Moreover, the course provides holistic education on relating the brand parameters to other organisational and financial procedures that allow for a more strategic approach to brand management,” elaborates Khanna. An effective brand manager understands the needs of consumers, and what is required to convert them into brand loyalists. They don’t sell, they create relationships with consumers. ‘In order to do this, it’s important to understand consumer behaviour, pricing mechanisms, brand loyalty, and research. They must be creatively inclined and be able to match brand values to consumer requirements.’ Understanding the consumer is the key to brand management. Amitabh Roy Chowdhury, Executive Director & COO, Prisma Global Limited says, “Brand Management is a gradual process of enhancing the relationship of a company’s product and its customer’s emotional perception of it on the grounds of quality, trust and loyalty. It leads to consistent customer satisfaction.” A brand manager should have an eye for detail and precision as far as building the brand image of a product is concerned. Successful brand managers’ common personality qualities include being results oriented, one who can handle the pressure of a deadline well; creative and perceptive and a person who possesses strong analytical and interpersonal skills. A person who enjoys healthy competition and is able to draw lessons from the same while positioning one’s brand makes for a good brand manager. Clarity in getting the message across, product positioning and social media savvy person is the prime requirement of a good brand manager. A brand manager enjoys working in a busy, deadline-driven, creative environment, and in product management. Chowdhury explains, “The essential job of a brand manager is to organise and oversee the promotion, sales, and overall image associated with certain products or services. Much of what this job involves on a day-to-day basis depends on industry needs, product specifications and analysing various market trends, binding his team together towards one concentrated goal of making his product or service distinguished from others.”
|
|
Testing times: Banking Exams
IBPS Clerical Recruitment Candidates aiming to join the clerical cadre in the banking sector need to qualify the clerical recruitment exam conducted once every year by the IBPS. It is an online two hour-test that has 200 questions. The exam contains test for reasoning, numerical ability, English language, general knowledge with special reference to banking sector and computer knowledge. The selection process for interview is based on this Common Written Exam, and there is a separate cutoff for each section. Candidates must clear each section for qualifying the examination. Graduates in any discipline aged between 20 and 28 years are eligible to take this exam. Working knowledge of computers is a must. The exam pattern is as follows: Logical Reasoning: Expect verbal and non-verbal questions. Verbal questions include classification, analogy, decision making, word formation, series, decoding and coding, blood relation, symbol and notation, statement and conclusion, seating arrangement and problem solving. Non-verbal questions will include series completion, finding any missing figure and classification. English Language: This will include synonyms, antonyms, sentence completion, word formation, para jumbles and reading comprehension passages that test on your ability to derive conclusion, detect theme etc. Numerical Ability & Quantitative Aptitude: This section comprises questions based on arithmetic and data interpretation, which includes bar graphs, pie-charts, line graphs & tabulation. Roots, Average, Ratio, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Percentage, Profit and loss etc. Computer Knowledge: This is based on both hardware (operating systems, computer networks, internet, E-commerce, the basic computer architecture, terminology, EFT systems, acronyms and MS Office. General Awareness: This covers questions primarily related to current affairs including constitution, politics, banking, economy, sports, finance, culture across India and neighbouring countries.
IBPS PO/MT Recruitment IBPS also conducts recruitment for the probationary officer/management trainee once a year. Sharing preparation tips for this exam Aastha Mehra, who took the exam last week said, “Time constraint and negative marking make this exam very tough. My advice to students is to manage the time well. You need to have a quick discerning eye to picks the right questions and spend precious moments where they are needed.”
The recruitment of specialist officer is for filling the specialist position in banks. For the post of Law officer and Rajbhasha Adhikari, the exam contains the test of reasoning, English language, general awareness and professional knowledge. Everything else remains the same except for all other specialist officer posts, instead of general awareness test, a quantitative aptitude test is there.
RRB Recruitment for Officers and Office Assistant IBPS conducts the recruitment of officers in regional rural banks (RRB) governed by NABARD. RRBs are the banks with a capital share of 50 per cent by Central Government, 15 per cent by state government and sponsored bank with 35 per cent. IBPS conducts the exam for the post of officer scale-I, officer scale-II, officer scale-III and office assistant for RRBs in India. Arshdip Singh Bhamra, a Bio Technology graduate who cleared the exam last year said, “It will be smooth sailing if you have speed. It differs from the theoretical exams in the sense that you are glued to books till the last moment in case of your degree examination, but for this examination, I put my books aside at least one day prior to taking the test. Since it tests your aptitude and is basically a test of speed, a cool mind is of paramount importance. I scored well in the aptitude exam and was called for the Personal Interview at PNB Ludhiana in which I was asked questions about my tangential entry into banking and about the economy. In personal interview, it is both confidence and richness of your content that matters. My advice to the students is that apart from the LR and DI section, the other sections like Computer Knowledge, General Knowledge and English, are not very difficult but time consuming. So, please take care you have a cool head over your shoulders.” Since the CWE is mainly a test of speed, once your concepts are clear and you know the fundamentals, all you need is
practice. — The writer is a Ludhiana-based career consultant
Tentative dates for Online IBPS CWE Clerk III exam: 30 November 2013
|
|
in conversation
The growth of tourism sector in India over the past decade has increased the scope of employment manifold. Last year the Ministry of Tourism had announced that the booming tourism industry would need an additional manpower of 2.03 lakh during its 12th five year plan period.
There is an urgent need for the expansion of institutional infrastructure; broad-basing of hospitality and tourism education; skill upgradation and certification of service providers and skill development through short-duration courses. The sector is predicted to grow at an average annual rate of 7.7 per cent in the next decade. New specialisations like business tourism, medical tourism and eco tourism, among others, are the upcoming areas in the Indian context. As per the latest ASSOCHAM reports; India has a large medical tourism sector which is expected to grow at an estimated rate of 30 per cent annually to reach about 9,500 crores by 2015. With the emergence of more avenues and employment opportunities, the tourism sector is considered as one of the most promising and lucrative career options for aspirants in the present day context. Apart from the regular courses students also have an option of giving a global edge to their training by enroling for courses offered by several foreign universities. In an interview with Arupjyoti Gogoi, Jayne Stocks, principal lecturer in tourism management, Sheffield Hallam University, UK, shares her viewpoint about tourism management courses from a global perspective. Excerpts: What are the emerging career opportunities for tourism management students? Opportunities in tourism management are extremely varied. Tourism is a multi- faceted industry and it includes public sector roles, large multi-national companies as well as small scale businesses and entrepreneurial opportunities. There is a need to balance attracting visitors with preserving destinations for visitors of the future. Thus sustainability and eco-tourism are becoming increasingly important. This has led to increasing career opportunities for professionals who understand these challenges and can provide creative solutions to solve them. What
is the relevance of tourism managment courses for Indian students? The tourism industry employs more than 235 million people all over the world and predictions suggest that it will help create an additional 66 million jobs by 2020 — and 50 million of those will be in Asia. India stands at a critical point in the development of tourism sector for both domestic and international inbound tourists. However, without informed management catastrophic errors could be made. All this depends on knowledge and management, which means that there will undoubtedly be many opportunities for Indian students with expertise in tourism management to make a career in this area. How do you see the prospects and opportunities in this industry two years down the line? I would expect to see many more jobs created in India and there will be a great need for many more tourism professionals. Those interested in this field as a career will certainly benefit from specialist study. From a global career perspective how should aspirants prepare themselves? Which are the courses being offered by your university? Tourism is an extremely international field and many tourism managers benefit from international and cultural awareness. Sheffield Hallam University offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Undergraduate provision includes BSc (Honours) Tourism Management and BSc (Honours) Tourism and Hospitality Business Management. Among the postgraduate courses offered are MSc International Tourism Management, which include modules on marketing, sustainable tourism, people management and the opportunity to apply theory to practice with a real-life consultancy project. We also offer MSc International Hospitality and Tourism which also has a work experience route.
|
|
cubicle trends
An overwhelming majority of Indian workers believe their managers set a good example for behaviour in the workplace, a new study has found. The 2013 Kronos Boss’ Day Survey also revealed the attributes of the best managers; employees preferred form of recognition; and the management-speak phrases that employees find the most annoying.
The survey found that 69 per cent of employees in India who have managers believe their managers set a good example in the way they behave, agreeing they are ethical, honest, collaborative, creative, empowering, innovative and trustworthy. A whopping 80 per cent of those employees also believe their managers adhere to those values on a regular basis. It revealed that almost half of all Indian employees with managers, 46 per cent, admitted they have complimented their manager just to get on his/her good side even when they didn’t mean it. Given the choice between a manager who is a high achiever but demanding or a manager who is nice but ineffective, 75 per cent of Indian employees with managers would choose the high achiever, the survey found. According to the survey, when asked whether they’d prefer a manager who invests in their professional development or one who invests in programmes to make the work environment more fun, 56 per cent chose fun while only 44 per cent chose professional development. When asked to select the three most important attributes of a good manager, honesty was the strong front runner with, 66 per cent, followed by goal-oriented, 63 per cent, and transparency, 46 per cent. Indian employees with managers are more irritated by any use of corporate jargon (95 per cent) than their Australian and American counterparts.
— Agencies
|
||
|
Accenture, Wipro, Infy most sought after
Technology services company Accenture has topped the list of 20 most sought after employers in India, compiled by professional networking site
LinkedIn. IT majors Wipro and Infosys have been ranked at the second and third place respectively as the ‘most InDemand employer brand’ in India by LinkedIn.
In India the top sectors are tech, telecom and media, professional services, and aero/auto/engineering. This is the second year in a row that Accenture has retained its numero uno spot, the professional networking site said. The top 10 companies in the list are IBM (4th), Hewlett Packard (5th), Oracle (6th), Tata Consultancy Services (7th), Amazon (8th), Microsoft (9th) and Airtel (10th). LinkedIn has determined these rankings by analysing the actions of its members on the platform. The professional network has more than 238 million members globally with over 21 million in India. Internet giant Google, which has been ranked as the top employer in demand in the world by LinkedIn, took the 13th spot on the Indian list. Google is followed by Apple and Unilever on the global list. Other firms in the top 20 list in India included Larsen & Toubro (11), Dell (12), HCL Technologies (14), Cognizant Technology Solutions (15), Deloitte (16), Cisco (17), Genpact (18), Adobe (19) and GE (20). “The companies who have made it to this year’s list are definitely ahead of the curve in their talent management efforts,” LinkedIn India Director Talent Solutions Irfan Abdulla said. “Building and maintaining an employer brand to attract the right kind of candidates is the need of the hour, failing which they will surely lose out in the war for quality talent,” Abdulla added.
— PTI
|
||
|
Don’t mix leisure & work
While most of the employees usually live in a gray zone of sorts between work and leisure, a new poll has revealed that workers who tend to relax on the weekends are plugged in to work because of the email alerts and social media constantly vying for
attention.
However, according to 168 Hours author Laura Vanderkam, you can easily enjoy and recharge yourself over the weekend just like successful people, who know that great weekends are the secret to workday success, even if your job requires you to work during your time off, the Huffington Post reported. Vanderkam said it can be easy to browse on work email throughout the weekend, especially when you’re getting messages from your boss. The author said that instead of sending emails here and there throughout your off, set aside one hour on Saturday or Sunday to get it all done and save the rest of the weekend for relaxing. Meanwhile, Tony Schwartz, CEO of The Energy Project and author of The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working, said it is important to be intentional with your energy, which means when you’re working, you’re really working; and when you’re renewing and refuelling, you’re really renewing. According to author of The Facebook Diet, Gemini Adams, if your job allows, disable your phone’s email function and send emails only during the allotted time when you’re at home or in front of your computer.
— ANI
|
||
|
Non-tech job scene to be hot
The hot jobs of 2018 to 2025 will feature a
wide range of fields like healthcare; research and development, and sales and marketing. According to a new report by Challenger Gray and Christmas, a lot of opportunities for non-techies are being created by rapidly changing tech.
Gray CEO John Challenger told the New York Daily News that the way people use technology, where we use it, and what we do with technology is creating all types of opportunities, and people don’t have to be a computer science major to take advantage of them. According to Challenger, healthcare groups, corporations, government agencies and others are all collecting massive amounts of information and people who can organise, manage and make sense of all this data would be much in demand. He said the pace of change and significant breakthroughs in all types of fields have accelerated renewable energy, healthcare, transportation and home construction segment. Challenger asserted that as medical equipment becomes more sophisticated, highly trained individuals will be needed to operate, troubleshoot and repair them.
— ANI
|
||
|
Skipping lunch break may be a good idea!
John Trugakos, who is an associate professor in the Department of Management at the University of Toronto Scarborough, and holds a cross-appointment to the Rotman School of Management, said they found that a critical element was having the freedom to choose whether to do it or not and the autonomy aspect helped to offset what they had traditionally thought was not a good way to spend break time. The study surveyed a range of administrative employees at a large North American university. Participants were asked about what they had done during their lunch breaks over a 10-day period. Researchers then asked participants' co-workers to report how tired their colleagues appeared by the end of each work day. The study found that relaxing activities during lunch, freely-chosen by workers, led to the least amount of reported fatigue at the end of the day. Getting work done resulted in employees appearing more tired, but that effect was reduced when employees felt it was their decision. Socialising, however, also led to higher levels of fatigue; something the paper says has to do with whether workers feel free to decide if they want to socialise and who they’re socialising with. The study is set to be published in the Academy of Management Journal.
— ANI
|
||
|
bookshelf
Dr. Rudi V. Webster’s worldview in his latest book presents the hidden mantra for excellence in performance. If one learns to decipher what matters the most, how and when should it be applied and which situations demand utmost control of thoughts and emotions, success will seem more plausible. Success is more in the mind than in the implementation.
The book takes readers on a course of motivation from a sportsman’s perspective. Being a renowned sports psychologist himself, the author has effectively unraveled the facts that have resulted in spectacular and memorable performances by the biggest names in cricket. The high point of the whole story is that every line which has been spelt and detailed holds true for every situation in and outside of sports and the playfield. Each situation, especially in work-life, is loaded with challenges wherein one’s survival is directly related to performance under extreme conditions. You are what you think and thinking is greatly affected by the level of discipline and perseverance that you put yourself through. Luck as Webster says plays a role in many situations to the extent that the harder you work, the luckier you get. The author has emphasised the importance of work and mind that shapes one’s perception, vision and ultimately generates positive energy and thoughts. The most vivid and telling part of the book comprises the range of advice and experiences of some of the rocking stars of the cricket world presented in the form of interviews. They capture the very essence of the theme of the book. The conversations that take note of various levels of game speak volumes about the importance of self-control, leadership, team-work, inventive thinking, good execution, cooperative and productive relationships, continuous learning and training, co-respect for contrasting values and beliefs and ultimately sound preparation. Looking at it from outside the sports arena, all the above are essential components of any successful venture. The book with its compelling explanations and narrations leaves one enlightened to get on the trajectory of success without looking back. The essence of the whole read is simple — that there is nothing like hardwork and persistence both of which are byproducts of a calm mind which is disciplined through strict controls and practice. As stated, “the only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary — Lombardi”, which explains it all. This is a must read for anybody who aspires and dreams big, likes to challenge the status-quo and strives for perfection. It reaches far beyond the cricket- stadium.
|
||
|
Happiness@work
Hearing both sides properly is vital. In 1896, the Brahmo Samaj decided to boycott Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das’ wedding as it was piqued by Das’ work ‘Malancha’, his first anthology of poems. On Das’ insistence, the acharyas there agreed to hear him out. Das convinced them, and got married to Basanti Devi according to Brahmo rites with the acharyas as witnesses in 1897. As a Brahmin neighbour lay dying, Kabir — an orphan brought up by Muslim parents — was asked to fetch some Ganga water in a cup. As Kabir was an ‘outcaste’, the dying man protested. Kabir said, “Can this holy water wash away your sins if it cannot purify my cup?” Don’t hesitate to explain the verdict. Legend has it that King Vikramaditya was a wise and just king. Being a lover of the arts, he was called by Indra, the chief of gods, to decide a dance contest between celestial maidens Rambha and Urvashi — one that even the gods couldn’t pronounce judgment on. Vikramaditya gave the verdict and explained the reasons for it. Indra was so happy that he presented the king with a throne given to him by Lord Shiva. Eighth century saint Adi Sankaracharya and scholar Mandana Mishra were about to debate the Truth. So Sankaracharya asked Mandana’s wife Ubhayabharati, an incarnation of Goddess Saraswati, to be the referee. She agreed and garlanded them both with fresh flowers. “The one who is not confident will sweat and that will make the flowers wither, thus declaring the loser,” she said. On the 18th day, Mandana lost his cool and his flowers lost their freshness. But Ubhayabharati wasn’t willing to concede that easily. She said, “As my husband and I are one, you have to beat me too. How can you claim all-round knowledge if you became a celibate at the age of eight?” Sankara accepted her point, asked for some time and entered the body of the dying king of Bengal. As the king, he learnt about the ways of the world and returned to his own body. As a final question before accepting defeat, Ubhayabharati asked, “Didn’t the experience of the world make your monkhood impure?” “The soul is just a witness. The experiences of the world don’t affect it,” Sankara concluded. Judgement is God's work. Think before equating yourself to
Him. — Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
|
||
|
newsboard
The University of Chicago will open a major new academic centre in Delhi next spring, supporting and expanding opportunities for collaboration among scholars and students from India and Chicago, across academic disciplines.
The centre will be a home for research and education for University of Chicago faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates working in India and throughout South Asia, as well as Indian researchers and students representing a wide array of institutions, and scholars from around the world. President Robert J. Zimmer said the centre will be an intellectual destination and will enable the University of Chicago to better support research and scholarship that will benefit faculty, students, and society. “The Center in Delhi reflects the importance the university places on global engagement and our commitment in India and South Asia particularly,” Zimmer said in New Delhi earlier this week. The centre will promote scholarship and teaching under three broad umbrellas — business, economics, law and policy; science, energy, medicine and public health; and culture, society, religion, and the arts. It will represent all parts of the university, including the college, the academic divisions, the professional schools, and the university’s affiliated laboratories: Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and the Marine Biological Laboratory. Located in the commercial district of Connaught Place, the 17,000 sq ft centre will provide space for seminars and conferences, as well as faculty offices and study areas. It will host Indian and South Asian students and scholars, serve as a base for UChicago students and faculty working at other institutions in India and throughout the region, and engage alumni and parents in India and South Asia. The centre is a wholly owned foreign enterprise operating under the name of UChicago Center in India Private Limited. The Center in Delhi will not grant degrees.
CBSE launches career counselling
and guidance centre
In order to make quality education accessible to students in the rural areas, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) launched its first ever Career Counselling and Guidance Centre in Lakhimpurkhiri, Uttar Pradesh recently. The Centre seeks to provide students with proper guidance and counselling, while choosing subjects in Class XI. The Centre is open to students of classes X and XII. “Class 10 and 12 are the turning points in a student’s academic journey. Being provided with the right academic guidance, at this time, will aid students not only in self development but enable them to contribute in the development and growth of the country,” said Shri Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Human Resource Development. The Career Counselling and Guidance Centre also provides counselling for parents and teachers within its gambit, the idea being to sensitise both sections towards the importance of career awareness and planning. The Centre also aims at generating awareness regarding existing career opportunities and familiarising students with related relevant information. Availing career counselling and guidance at the centre is free of cost. However, one has to pay ~50 only for taking the SGAI test. The results of SGAI can be attained within a day of taking the assessment.
Art competition for school students
Arts University Bournemouth, UK, is inviting Indian students to participate in a scholarship competition ‘Who Are You — In a gender defined world’. Winners of the contest will get a chance to win a scholarship worth
Rs 12 lakh. The competition will also give students of Class XI and XII an opportunity to see their work ‘supersized’ on huge hoardings all over the UK. Students will be required to produce a piece of art
that expresses them within the gender defined world they live in. The winner will be entitled to a scholarship equal to the first year fees of any Foundation or Bachelor’s level course at the Arts University Bournemouth, a prize worth over
Rs 12 lakh. Besides, there will be four runners-up to be awarded with a scholarship of £1000 each to study at AUB whereas; 20 best entries will be part of a high profile art exhibition in New Delhi in May 2014. Selection process: To participate in the competition, candidates can send in their entry to wayindia@aub.ac.uk. Deadline: December 23, 2013. Check out: aub.ac.uk/wayindia
|
||
|
course cruising
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with at least 50 per cent marks or equivalent CGPA from any of the recognised universities, deemed universities, including ICAI, ICSI, ICWAI, etc. How to apply: Online. Deadline: January 15, 2014 Check out: http://www.snu.edu.in/admission/admissions_open_for_mba.aspx
Banking and Finance
Symbiosis School of Banking & Finance (SSBF), Pune is inviting applications for its industry- aligned two-year MBA programme. The course is aimed to mint a new breed of management professionals, specially for the BFSI sector. Eligibility: Graduate with minimum 50 per cent marks (45 per cent for SC/ST) from a recognised university. Students in the final year may also apply. Admission of such candidates will be provisional and subject to the fulfillment of the stated criteria. Last date to register for SNAP: November 22, 2013 Last date to register and pay for MBA (Banking & Finance): December 14, 2013 To register for SNAP & MBA (Banking & Finance), visit: http://ssbf.edu.in/procedure
IGNOU courses
Interested candidates can apply for admission to distance education courses offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University for the academic cycle commencing from January 2014. The different curses include under graduate, post graduate, diploma and certificate courses in different subjects. How to apply: Buy Prospectus from Regional Centre in person (~150), or ask by post from the address given below by sending a DD of ~200 in favour of IGNOU, New Delhi. It can also be downloaded from the university website www.ignou.ac.in REGISTRAR. Student Registration Division Indira Gandhi National Open University Maidan Garhi, New Delhi 110 068 Deadline: December 16, 2013; with late tee of Rs. 500: December 31, 2013 Check out: http://ignou.ac.in
Computer courses
The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) invites aspiring engineering graduates (or equivalents) committed to apply for admission to 24-week full-time high-end PG Diploma courses in ICT and related areas for February 2014 batch. These courses are offered at 31 centres in 19 cities across the country. Students can apply for the following ocurses: n Advanced Computing (PG-DAC) n Wireless and Mobile Computing (PG-DWiMC) nVLSI Design (PG-DVLSI) nEmbedded Systems Design (PG-DESD) nIT Infrastructure, Systems and Security (PG-DITISS) nSystem Software Development (PG-DSSD) nAutomation and SCADA Systems (PG-DASS) nHealthcare Informatics (PG-DHI) nGeoinformatics (PG-DGi) C-DAC’s Common Admission Test (C-CAT) will be held onDecember 8 and 15, 2013 Deadlline for online application: November 28, 2013 Check out: www.cdac.in; acts.cdac.in
|
||
|
scholarship roundup
Eligible candidates can apply for Prof R.P.
Anand Memorial International Law Scholarships 2014. This is a private scholarship programme under whicj two scholarships are offered each year based on the academic achievement, application content, faculty recommendations and financial needs of the applicants.
Eligibility: Applicant must be an active and enrolled post graduate student (LLM or MPhil and/or Phd) in a UGC recognised university of India or accredited university anywhere in the world and actively pursuing one of these degrees in International Law. Details: Each scholarship will include an award amount of ~15,000 per quarter for one year paid quarterly (Total ~60,000). Overseas awardee may be awarded equivalant amount in USD ($1200/year). How to apply: Online at webadmin@profrpanand.info. Duration: One year. Deadline: November 30, 2013. Check out: http://www.profrpanand.info/scholarship/
INSPIRE Programme
Applications are invited from eligible candidates for ‘Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)’, a component of INSPIRE. Total of 10,000 scholarships are available annually under SHE. The scholarships are limited only to the candidates who have passed Class XII in 2013 from various recognised Indian State and Central Boards and studying courses in Natural/ Basic Sciences at three years BSc, BSc (Hons.), four years B.S. and five years integrated MSc/ M.S. programmes in any recognised college/university/institutions in India. The scheme in its current format does not include courses in Engineering, Medicine, Technology and other Professional or Technical or Applied Science Courses. Detail: Each eligible candidate will receive annual scholarship of the value of ~80,000. The cash value payable to the SHE Scholarship holder is ~60,000 per annum along with a summer time Attachment Fee of ~20,000 which will be paid for under- taking summer time research project. Duration: Selected candidates will be supported for a maximum period of five years . Eligibility: The eligibility of candidates will be based on (a) Performance in Board Examinations within the cut-off threshold (top 1%) for each state or central board examination for 2013 at Class XII level. Performance in any of the specified competitive examinations within stipulated cut-off ranks and recipient of various scholarships and medals. The eligible Candidate must be already enrolled into a valid degree level course in natural/basic sciences within the scope of INSPIRE scholarship at any recognised college or university or institute in India. How to apply: Students may apply either off-line or on-line. Application format is available at http://www.inspire-dst.gov.in Deadline: November 30, 2013, for online. December 9, 2013, for offline. Check out: http://www.inspire-dst.gov.in
Study in Singapore
Public Service Commission is offering undergraduate scholarship at local universities in Singapore i.e. National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU) and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) in Singapore. Each year, three to four scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from 15 Asia Pacific economies to pursue undergraduate studies at universities in Singapore. Eligibility: The applicants should: Concurrently apply for admission to NUS, NTU, SMU or SUTD. Demonstrate leadership qualities and possess good academic and co-curricular activities (CCA) achievements; Have sat for, or made private arrangements to sit for the SAT I; (for more information on SAT 1 and registration for the test Duration: The scholarship supports a maximum of 4 years of undergraduate study (including Honors). Details: Tuition and other compulsory fees; Airfare (to Singapore and return to home country upon completion of study); Annual maintenance allowance of SGD6500; Hostel allowance based on institution of study; and Settling-in allowance (one-off expense) of SGD200 upon arrival in Singapore. How to apply: Online Deadline: February 19, 2014. Check out: http://www.pscscholarships.gov.sg
|
||
|
CAREER
HOTLINE What is meant by Fine Art?
A. Fine art refers to arts that are concerned with beauty or which appeal to taste. The term “Fine” originally designated a number of visual art forms, including painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Art schools and design institutes still use the term to indicate a traditional perspective on the visual arts, often implying an association with classic or academic art. The word “fine” does not so much denote the quality of the artwork, but
the purity of the discipline. This definition tends to exclude visual art forms that could be considered ‘craft’ or applied art, such as textiles.
The more recent term ‘Visual Arts’ is widely considered to be a more inclusive and descriptive phrase for today’s variety of current art practices, and for the multitude of mediums in which high art is now more widely recognised to reflect. At the degree level, courses in fine art
are taught at the bachelor’s (BFA) and master’s (MFA) level. While you can pursue a degree-level programme
if you wish to study the theory and fundamentals of art in a structured manner or wish to go into academia, no specific degree is mandated to become an artist. Neither is it the sole indicator of your future talent or success. Many MFAs are unable to make a living from their own art and pursue careers in fields other than pure art, while there are countless brilliant untutored artists. And, as Indian art continues to acquire global recognition and value,
this is a great time for gifted artists to foray into this field.
Scope for Indian CAs
A. It isn’t just Indian IT professionals, engineers and management graduates who are in demand overseas. The perception of Indian CAs in the international market has also changed dramatically. Earlier, CAs from the western world were more in demand due to their command over English and the colonial mentality prevailing in some countries. But the scenario is now changing. Indian CAs are in demand in other countries as well. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), the apex body of Indian CAs, and the world’s second largest body of accounting professionals with several lakh members receives requests from over 30 countries seeking Indian accounting professionals. Apart from the Middle East, there’s huge demand for CAs in countries like Australia, New Zealand and Nigeria etc. Even at the ICAI’s campus placements overseas recruiters offer plum postings for Indian CAs. And yes while residing abroad, you can keep your membership active by remitting the annual membership fee to the ICAI. The fee can also be paid in advance for a period of three years.
Which is the best course for
getting into journalism?
A. While you can pursue a bachelor’s programme in journalism/mass communication and several universities do offer them; it’s certainly not the ONLY route to a career in journalism. In fact, you could do your graduation in any broad stream that interests you — science/commerce/humanities — and still make a career in journalism as long as you have good written communication skills and some of the personal attributes required to be a journalist — a nose for news, ability to work well under pressure, not unfazed by deadlines, aggressive, don’t give up easily, are inquisitive and curious about things. While doing your graduation, try and intern with a local newspaper, or even a magazine or portal; write for your college magazine; set-up a blog; and also submit articles to publications. After completing your graduation, join a PG course in journalism/mass communication where you will learn the basics and the “rules” and techniques involved.
Do I need permission to fly abroad?
A. In their own interest, Indian pilots going abroad for multi-engine endorsement training in an ICAO Contracting State must get their training syllabus approved by DGCA. As for your second question, yes permission is certainly required. Flying outside India is regulated by the particular state in which you are flying. Else, outside flying will not be reckoned for any purpose unless it is verified by that state’s regulatory authority and unless that verification is directly sent to the DGCA India. Email your queries to
careers@tribunemail.com
|
||
|
FORTNIGHTLY QUIZ 450
2. When is India’s ambitious space mission to explore planet Mars set to begin from the spaceport of Sriharikota? 3. Which legendary Bollywood singer passed away recently at the age of 94? 4. How many Indian women have recently made it to the Fortune magazine’s global list of top 50 women business leaders? 5. Where in Himachal Pradesh is the annual international paragliding championship held? 6. Name the most-distant galaxy ever-seen that was recently discovered by scientists? 7. How many years ago was the Battle of Leipzig or Battle of Nations fought? 8. Which former Yugoslav republic recently qualified for the 2014 Football World Cup for the first time? 9. Which country occupies the top slot in Test cricket at present? 10. Who recently scored the fastest century for India in one-day international cricket? —
Tarun Sharma Winners of quiz 449: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Vinay Kumar Dahiya; Class - 10th; Kendriya Vidyalaya Konsiwas; Rewari; Haryana; Pin Code -123401 Second: Manvi Sekhri; Class: IX; Govt. Senior Secondary Model School, BBMB, Sunder Nagar T/Ship; dist Mandi (HP) Pin Code - 175019 Third: Farrhat Sandu, Class-VI, Army Public School, Military Cantonment, Fazilka Road, Abohar, Pin Code - 152116, district Fazilka, Punjab Answers to quiz 449: Phailin; Panjab University; Higgs Boson (God Particle); Arundhati Bhattacharya; West Bengal; Dhruv; October 7; Alice Munro; Pakistan; Afghanistan Cash awards of Rs 400, 300 and 200 are given to the first, second and third prize winners, respectively. These are sent at the school address. Note: Kindly mention the pincode of your place on the letter/postcard to facilitate the delivery of the prize money. Answers can also be sent at
quiz@tribunemail.com Name……………….…………..................................... Class....………….......….…….................................... School address
......................................................
|
Technology services company Accenture has topped the list of 20 most sought after employers in India, compiled by professional networking site
LinkedIn. IT majors Wipro and Infosys have been ranked at the second and third place respectively as the ‘most InDemand employer brand’ in India by LinkedIn.
Would you literally like to see stars in your job every day? What if you could explore the Galactic black holes collecting data from the observatory in Ladakh and Himalayas?
Hiring is expected to pick up in the current festive season, especially in retail and other consumer-focused sectors, leading to a 5-12 per cent increase in new job creations across the country, say experts.
Banking is one of the most lucrative sectors in India. Entry into this sector is governed by specialised exams which are conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel selection (IBPS) — an institute that serves the public sector banks in India for their selection processes. Every year IBPS conducts the Common Written Examination for the post of clerks and probationary officers for vacancies in the sector.
A new research has suggested that working through lunch might not be bad but only if employees choose it instead of being pressured.
Some persons in authority are quick to give judgment without properly looking at all the facts. At other times, they easily dismiss a decently done job without having a substitute to offer. These actions are counter-productive as these delay the completion of the process, ruin the self-confidence of the workers concerned and could even lead to wrong results.
Shiv Nadar University, Noida, has invited applications for admission to two-year full-time MBA course.
Q. Could you please explain what ‘fine art’ really means? Is it necessary to have a formal qualification to become a painter?
Q. I am pursuing CA and would appreciate if you could tell me about the prospects for Indian Chartered Accountants abroad. Is our CA course recognised or not? Can Indian CAs compete with those from other countries? Can one retain membership of the ICAI if one is working abroad?
Q. I want to become a journalist by
profession. Which course should I pursue immediately after completing my Class
XII? Can you please guide me about the college and courses?
Q. I am Indian CPL holder planning to go abroad for multi-engine training. Could you please tell me whether I need to obtain an NOC in India for multi-engine endorsement? Also, could you clarify whether any permission required for flying outside India on an Indian CPL?
1. Which jubilee is being celebrated by the Bhakra Dam this year?